Dodge Nitro Misfire & Power Loss: Bad Cam Sensor Alert

Had similar symptoms on a 2008 Dodge Journey diesel that turned out to be a failing automotive sensor, specifically the camshaft position sensor. The check engine light came on after experiencing rough idling and stalling engine issues. The symptoms match exactly: misfiring during cold starts, significant power loss, and timing issues when accelerating. Diagnostic testing confirmed the stored error code pointing to the camshaft sensor circuit. The repair required replacing the sensor unit and checking all connecting wires since corrosion had damaged the wiring harness connector. This was a relatively straightforward fix but critical for engine performance and preventing potential engine damage if left unaddressed. Based on the symptoms described, recommend having the camshaft sensor connections inspected first. The wiring harness might need cleaning or replacement if corrosion is present. A full diagnostic scan should reveal if there are any additional stored codes beyond the camshaft sensor circuit. While not the most expensive repair, this issue requires prompt attention as it affects engine timing and could lead to more serious problems if not addressed.

Thanks for detailing your experience with the Journey. I had a very similar sensor failure on my 2010 Nitro last winter causing the same stalling engine problems. The mechanic found corroded wiring near the camshaft sensor which was triggering the check engine light. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your case? I paid around 280€ for the complete fix including parts and labor. Just wondering if that was in the normal range. Also curious if youve had any recurring timing issues since getting it fixed? My Nitro has been running smoothly for 8 months now with no additional automotive sensor problems.

After getting the Dodge Journey checked by my mechanic, the main issue was indeed the faulty camshaft sensor connection. The repair cost was surprisingly reasonable at just 95€, which covered fixing the corroded wiring and reconnecting the sensor properly. No actual part replacement was needed in my case since the sensor itself was still functional. Since the repair about a year ago, the engine has been running perfectly with no recurring timing issues or engine misfires. The stalling engine problems completely disappeared after the cable connection was properly fixed. The initial diagnosis pointed to a sensor failure, but thankfully it was just the wiring that needed attention. Your 280€ repair cost seems reasonable if they had to replace the actual camshaft sensor along with fixing the wiring. These costs can vary depending on whether just the connections need work or if the sensor unit itself requires replacement.

Thanks for the input. Just wanted to update that I took my Nitro to a new mechanic last week. The engine misfire symptoms were exactly as described, rough idling and power loss during acceleration. The diagnostic scan revealed multiple timing issues related to the camshaft sensor circuit. After a thorough inspection, they found extensive corrosion damage in the wiring harness near the sensor connection. The mechanic cleaned all connections and ended up replacing both the wiring and sensor unit since they were both damaged beyond repair. Total cost came to 310€ which included the new OEM sensor, wiring harness repair, and labor. The check engine light is now off and the car runs perfectly with no more stalling engine problems. Really glad I got this fixed before it led to more serious engine damage. Will update if any issues return, but so far the repair seems to have completely resolved the rough idling and power loss problems. Thanks again for helping diagnose this!